The growth in the number of street children and orphans in Ghana's capital Accra is a real concern. Centres and schools set up to help teach these children English and vocational skills are in need of your care and assistance. You may help with lessons or after school activities such as art and drama which will help these kids to a brighter future. Also important is finding ways just to let them have fun, put aside their problems even if it is just for a few hours and enjoy their childhoods.
Project details:
i-to-i works with several projects based in Accra, which provide support, basic education and social welfare to street kids and children who have been orphaned, neglected or are otherwise in need of care. The projects work with children of various ages from babies to teens. Examples of projects include a centre comprising a nursery, créche and primary school, which cares for the children of street girls so that they continue working or attend vocational training. Other projects involve working with older children supporting teenage girls and boys who have been detained for involvement in crime, frequently as a consequence of poverty. With the support and training from volunteers they can be helped to turn their futures around.
Why the project needs volunteers:
In 1996 a survey found that there were 10,400 street children in Accra, of which half were boys and half were girls. Compared to other African cities this may not sound like a large amount, but what is concerning is the speed at which the number is increasing. In 2003, another survey was conducted which discovered 20,000 children and 6,000 babies on the streets.
Volunteers are desperately needed to support the staff running the centres, and to provide some basic skills and companionship. Children with little formal education in Ghana do not tend to speak English or have only a basic knowledge. As English is the national language in Ghana, English teachers are a permanent necessity and by helping in these areas you can bring an invaluable skill to the children you work with.
What kind of skills you need to go on this type of project:
Volunteers must have, above all, a love of children and commitment to the projects. You will need to be flexible, and have initiative and enthusiasm to face the many hurdles and challenges that you will inevitably encounter within your role. To ensure that you get the most out of and contribute fully to your project, a pro-active attitude is essential. Any skills that you have in sports, music, drama, art or fundraising will be more than welcome.
Your role as a volunteer:
Due to the nature of the centres, work will be varied. Teaching English will be a major part of both projects but in addition to this you can get involved in various activities such as sports, music, drama or art (depending on the skills you have). With the younger children you will spend time reading stories or singing songs and generally assisting them. Volunteers will also find they become a role model figure, and offer friendship and confidence to such disadvantaged children.
Where the project is based:
All the projects are based in the capital city, Accra, with shops, banks and internet cafes nearby. Volunteers stay in shared self-catering accommodation. Based on the coast, this vibrant city is renowned for its friendly atmosphere where visitors are always welcomed. It's full of contrasts: from traditional culture and history to modern infrastructure.
Please book your flight to arrive into Accra (airport code ACC) on the advertised arrival date to ensure your airport pickup.
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